tyke

¹ American  

[tahyk] / taɪk /

Or tike

noun

1. Australia and New Zealand Informal. a Roman Catholic.

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tyke ² American  

[tahyk] / taɪk /

Or tike

noun

1. a child, especially a small boy.

2. any small child.

3. a cur; mongrel.

4. Chiefly Scot. a low, contemptible fellow; boor.

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tyke British  

/ taɪk /

noun

1. a dog, esp a mongrel

2. informal a small or cheeky child: used esp in affectionate reproof

3. dialect a rough ill-mannered person

4. Also called: Yorkshire tyke.  slang a person from Yorkshire

5. slang a Roman Catholic

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Etymology

Origin of tyke¹

1940–45; compare Ulster English Taig contemptuous term for a Roman Catholic Irishman, archaic English teague derogatory name for an Irishman < Irish Tadhg a common personal name

Origin of tyke¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Old Norse tīk bitch

Example Sentences

On this day, Dad and the tyke stopped together and he bought a ticket.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead the adorable tyke made a break for right field.

From Los Angeles Times

The adventure-seeking tyke immediately turned and took a step toward the outfield before his pops quickly gathered him for some photos.

From Los Angeles Times

"Drop their little tykes off next door. We have doctors on board and nurses who are going to feed them, but mum and dad will be working in our office."

From BBC

The wisdom David’s character imparts to the tyke?

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• brat
• imp
• lad
• little terror